Lean Leadership on a Napkin

Chapter 7

What Key Principles Drive a Lean Culture?

Here are some key principles that have been either clearly articulated and are commonly understood, and some others that are implicit that I have discerned from my own experience and observations over many years.

Key Principle #1: Keep It Simple

While you won't see this particular principle laid out in other books, etc., it is a deeply embedded philosophy that is worth elevating into our consciousness. As I mentioned in the introduction, while I was at Toyota, I learned the real value of simplicity.

I often repeat my personal mantra that the only thing better than low tech is no tech. Don't use a pen when a pencil will do. Don't use a pencil when a crayon will do. You get the idea.

Case ...